Barcelona managed to secure a hard-fought draw on the road thanks to the outstanding performance of their new goalkeeper, Joan García.
In the third round of La Liga, the defending champions drew 1-1 with Rayo Vallecano, bringing an end to their run of nine consecutive away wins across all competitions.
Flick Praises Goalkeeper’s Performance
After the match, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said in his post-game interview: “We can feel fortunate to take this point. In the second half, Rayo Vallecano created many chances, but we had an exceptional goalkeeper in Joan, and he managed to save us.”
García Named Man of the Match
Joan García, who joined this summer from city rivals Espanyol, delivered a superb display with six crucial saves.
Among them were a close-range stop in the 12th minute, a one-on-one save against De Frutos in the 73rd minute, and two consecutive blocks in the 90th minute. His commanding performance earned him the Man of the Match award.
Speaking after the game, García said: “When facing the opponent’s shots, I just tried to do my duty as a goalkeeper. I’m satisfied with my performance, but I would have preferred the team to win.”
Yamal Scores Record-Breaking Penalty
Barcelona’s attacking efforts were less convincing, with their only goal coming in the 40th minute. Young talent Lamine Yamal won a penalty and converted it himself to open the scoring. At just 18 years and 49 days old, he became the youngest player in the 21st century to score from the penalty spot in a La Liga match.
Pérez’s Volley Secures the Equaliser
Barcelona failed to maintain its lead until the final whistle. In the 67th minute, Fran Pérez equalised for Rayo Vallecano with a powerful volley following a corner.
Athletic Club Keep Pace With Real Madrid
Following Barcelona’s draw and setbacks elsewhere in Catalonia, only Real Madrid and Athletic Club remain unbeaten with perfect starts after the first three rounds of La Liga.
On the same day, Athletic Bilbao claimed their third consecutive win of the season with a 2-1 away victory over Real Betis.
The Basques opened the scoring with an own goal in the 60th minute, before Paredes doubled the lead in the 85th. Bakambu pulled one back in stoppage time for Betis, but Athletic ultimately held on for the win.
Although Barcelona’s winning streak came to an end, Joan García’s brilliant display undoubtedly earned his side a valuable point and gave fans confidence in the potential of their new goalkeeper.
As the season progresses, Barça will need to find more solutions in attack to defend their league crown. Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao’s perfect starts set the stage for an intriguing battle at the top of La Liga.
